The Unfinished Gift

I read the reviews before I purchased this book. None of them mentioned that it was written by a pastor and had a strong Christian theme.

The Unfinished Gift by Dan Walsh is an unexpected treasure. Patrick Collins is having a terrible Christmas. His mother killed in a car accident, his father fighting the Nazis overseas, he's sent off to wait for his father's return with a grandfather, Ian, he's never met. Ian is Scrooge personified: angry at the world, curmudgeonly, stingy, and holding on to a burning anger at Patrick's father that spills over into his relationship with the seven-year-old Patrick. Kathleen Townsend, Patrick's social worker, is doing everything she can to care for the sweet little boy, but when bad news comes, no one can protect him from the consequences. Walsh's rendering of Ian is that of a harsh almost brutal man, who turned his back on anyone who refused to do things his way. Patrick is a lovely, sweet boy who wants nothing more than to please the adults around him, but there's no pleasing Ian. Walsh reminds readers that Christmas is a time of second chances and to offer forgiveness. Keep tissues handy while reading this one!

What a heartwarming story! You'll root for the characters and enjoy the satisfying conclusion. The WWII time period adds depth to the experience, and the theme of forgiveness is so encouraging. This book will make a great gift, especially for Christmas. Looking forward to reading more books from Dan Walsh...

I got 50 pages into the book and then turned to the back to see how long it was, because I didn't want it to end. The characters are so expertly developed they draw you right into the story. I enjoyed this book so much I read it again out loud to my family. We can't wait for the sequel. Great gift!

I absolutely LOVED this story!! I was so caught up with all the characters, that I felt as if I were a part of the story myself. Can't wait for the sequel in June!!

This book was absolutely wonderful!! I couldn't put it down and finished it in two days! It is easy to read with a comfortable sized print good for older folks. The story grabs you and carries all the way through to the end, bringing out many Christian truths along the way, encouraging our faith. I am eagerly looking forward to the sequel!